A strong third quarter from Collingwood proved to be the difference in a 9.6 (60) to 14.4 (88) VWFL win over Essendon on Sunday.

The Dons broke out to an early 13-point lead and looked slick going forward in the first term, with Sam Maraldo and Caleb Logan continuing their good form.

The Pies adopted a more defensive-oriented approach after quarter time, which paid dividends as the momentum was halted going into the half.

After the break, Collingwood rushed into a decisive 33-point lead and looked much improved, making it difficult for the Dons to muster a comeback.

Scott van Gemert and James Leonard relieved some of the damage on the defensive end for the Bombers, allowing them to even out the final term and fight out the contest.

Essendon’s community side also succumbed to the Pies, falling 3.4 (22) to 6.5 (41).

Both Dons’ sides will look to bounce back from the losses against St. Kilda at Diamond Valley Stadium on Sunday, June 25.